Fuchsia magellanica aka Fuchsia

Taxonomy

Fuchsia magellanica, also known as the hummingbird fuchsia or hardy fuchsia, is a bushy and hardy deciduous plant native to the lower Southern Cone of southern South America. In milder parts of the UK, it can exhibit semi-evergreen characteristics. This low-maintenance shrub features toothed dark green leaves and delicate, narrow, tubular tricolor flowers in shades of pinkish-red, white, and purple that bloom from summer through autumn. With its tall stature, it can serve as a privacy or windbreak hedge, bringing vibrant colors to any garden or outdoor space. This plant, reaching up to two meters in height, is native to Patagonia and is easily identified by its bright pink bell-shaped flowers. With proper care and the right nutrients, Fuchsia magellanica can thrive in various garden settings.

Common names

Fuchsia, Dollar Princess, Hardy Fuchsia

How to care for Fuchsia

Difficulty

Fuchsia requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Fuchsia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Fuchsia, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Dollar Princess with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Fuchsia from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Fuchsia regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Fuchsia will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Fuchsia prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Fuchsia should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Fuchsia’s native range is S. America. - Peru and south to Tierra Del Fuego. Naturalized in S.W. England.


More info:
Wikipedia